06/26/05
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Networking
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site admin @ 6:50 pm
Why is effective, well-executed networking necessary to your job-search success? Done well and with class, networking is the process that allows you to gain access and information, while cultivating, solidifying, and building relationships with others, all of which is more likely than any other means to lead to a real job opportunity. When you network, you are really exchanging information in a non-threatening environment, one that should not have the anxiety producing atmosphere typical of a traditional job interview. Networking provides an opportunity to develop rapport, share data, and offer insight. It’s an excellent venue for testing ideas and verifying perceptions.
In a successful networking discussion, both parties openly share information without fear of reprisal or being “evaluated” for an opportunity. Presumably, there is no opportunity at stake (and, therefore, the angst that accompanies the interview process—Am I the best candidate? Will I be invited back for a second interview? Will an offer be made?—should not be entering the equation). Hence, you can be at ease in relating facts about your background and ask questions openly.
Here are some key numbers to remember when it comes to methods of successful job search and how you allocate your time:
• For executives, up to 10% find new positions through working with recruiters/executive search firms • Traditional classifieds can account for how 10% find new jobs • Fewer than 5% find their jobs via the internet • Combined, mass distribution of resumes and outplacement accounts for less than 2% of all new positions found • Depending upon level, 65-75% of all jobs are found through networking … and this number is even higher for C-suite and senior executives.
Effective networking taps the traditionally hidden (unadvertised) job market … it creates opportunities for employment that may only be on the preliminary drawing board. In subsequent columns, I’ll present some of the best specific strategies for effective networking.
– Jan Melnik, MRW, CCM, CPRW, President, Absolute Advantage
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